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The BDSM Power Exchange: Subversion, Transcendence, Sexual (R)evolutioin dulcinea Pitagoria, MA, LMSW Abstract BDSM interactions can be perceived as a reaction against conventional socio-political roles and rote dynamics of power and subjugation. Inherent in the BDSM power exchange is a means to transcend heteronormative constraints of eroticism by exposing the inadequacies of the typical social constructions that designate agents of power. Academic research reveals that the freedom from constraint sought by BDSM practitioners might have the power to further the potential of human freedom, in the realm of sexuality and beyond. In the negotiation of power dynamics, and the breakdown of traditional gender and sexual norms, a transcendence is possible, for all individuals who fall in- or outside of the statistical sexual norm. With a conscious application of the concepts of gender subversion, and attention to negotiated and consensual power dynamics to all manner of sexual interaction, an evolution of sexual potential for all is not only possible, but likely, and overdue. Click for PDF of the Full Article

17th Annual Symposium in San Diego, California on Aug 27, 1999 I. Who we are... why we are doing this.. Introductions of Dr. Ruth W., neurologist, and Susan Wright, Policy Director of NCSF We are presenting on "SM Issues for Healthcare Providers" because the same issues which may lead to inadequate health care for patients with non-mainstream sexual orientations or gender identity affect those who participate in sexual minority practices. There are many questions related to physical or psychological health which patients may feel unable to ask because of fear of discrimination or of breach of confidentiality. As health care providers, we have a responsibility to be able to address these concerns without passing judgment. An understanding of the basic principles of SM play enables us to fulfill this responsibility. In addition, it is important that we be able to identify when someone is in an abusive, non-consensual situation, and to provide them with appropriate support. This workshop will address the physical and psychological aspects of SM practices and provide an understanding of common scenarios. II. Examples of questions Doctors may get A 50 y/o man defers consulting his family physician about lower abdominal cramping associated with bowel movements because he is afraid the doctor will be able to tell he is into anal sex play and enemas, and that this may be related to his problem. A 30 y/o woman gets a vaginal tear from fisting, which is continuing to bleed, but doesn't want to consult her doctor or got to the ER. A 45 y/o man is left in bondage by a professional dominatrix for too long and develops numbness and weakness of both arms which does not resolve after a couple of days. A 25 y/o woman newly diagnosed with MS is scared to explore her new interest in SM with her girlfriend, because she doesn't know how to ask her neurologist about what might be safe or dangerous for her to do. The same issues which may lead to inadequate healthcare for patients with non-mainstream sexual orientation or gender identity affect those who participate in sexual minority practices. This includes gays, lesbians, bisexuals, folks who enjoy SM, who have body modifications such as piercings, tattoos, who crossdress, who are sex workers, who have multiple partners, who are transgendered or engage in fetish behavior. There…